Follow-up of high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (H-SIls) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -positive and human papillomavirus (HPV) -positive women. analysis of risk factors
Frega, A.; Biamonti, A.; Maranghi, L.; Vetrano, G.; Palazzo, A.; Iacovelli, R.; Corosu, R.; French, D.; Moscarini, M.; Vecchione, A.
Anticancer Research 26(4b): 3167-3170
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0250-7005 PMID: 16886651 Document Number: 601111
Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)positive women are at high risk of co-infection from human papillomavirus (HPV) and of developing squamous intra-epithelial lesions of the cervix. Materials and Methods: From April 1997 to March 1999, 86 women, affected by high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (H-SILs), were enrolled: 41 were HIV+ (CD4+ count > 500/ml) and 45 were HIV-. The diagnosis of high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesion (H-SIL) was established for each patient by Pap test, colposcopy and guided biopsy. For all samples, the HPV/DNA test was also performed by PCR. The patients' lesions and recurrence were treated by cone biopsy or large loop excision (LEEP). Annual controls were performed for 5 years. Results: A high rate of alcohol and drug use (60.7% vs. 31.4%; p=0.004; 80% vs. 27.5%; p < 0.001, respectively) and number of male partners (4.5 vs. 3.0; p < 0.001) were found in the HIV+ patients, compared to the HIV- patients. Both groups were HPV+ for high-risk types. No difference was found in the percentage of patients who had received a second LEEP. Conclusion: Our findings suggest the treatment of H-SIL in HIV-positive women, for a longer disease-free survival, or a lower risk of developing cervical cancer.